Henry L. Peterson, Dodge City, Kansas

Western Kansas in the 30's: Interview with Henry L. Peterson

An oral interview and its transcription reflect the remembrances of Henry L. Peterson of Dodge City, the Socialist party's nominee for governor of Kansas in 1928, and lifelong champion of progressive principles. His father, Jorgen Peterson, helped to organize the Socialist party in Denmark. Henry's interview in April 1980 by Noel Ary, director of the Kansas Heritage Center, reflects the state of Kansas in the depths of the Great Depression, and its struggles with dust-bowl conditions and farm foreclosures.

Later in life, Henry Peterson served for 20 years as managing director of the Kansas Credit Union League, and helped to organize 266 credit unions, both rural and urban.

Originally submitted by: Pat Roberts, Senator.

More Local Legacies... Additional Kansas Local Legacies Local Legacies for all U.S. States

The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.

Learn More About It... Related Web Site